NextGen Jobs

The 21st century workforce is fast-paced and constantly evolving. Emerging technologies such as automation, robotics and artificial intelligence are causing significant disruption across all industries. Therefore, the types of jobs and skillsets required to perform both new and existing jobs are changing. So, how can you ensure your business has a pipeline of talent with the skills they need to thrive in the 21st century workforce?

The answer is vocational education and training (VET).
Through mentored apprenticeship and traineeship programs, your business can
quickly and effectively develop a workforce with a relevant and fit-for-purpose
skillset.

If you think apprenticeships are just for the
construction and hairdressing industries – think again. I recently attended the
Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry AFLW lunch. Here, Apprenticeship
Support Australia and their newest brand ambassador, AFLW superstar Maddie
Shevlin shared the message that “any business in any industry can hire an
apprentice or trainee.”

This is truer now more than ever before. At NextGen
Jobs, we are seeing an increasing number of businesses using VET as an
effective way to equip their workforce with the transferable skills they need
to thrive now and in the future.

“Any business in any industry can hire an apprentice or trainee.”

At NextGen Jobs, we work with a wide variety of
businesses to deliver modern apprenticeship and traineeship programs in
industries such as: Information Technology (including cybersecurity), Business
and Health Administration Digital Media, Food Science Technology, Land and
Conservation, 3D printing and other high-tech or emerging areas.

From the Wiradjuri tribe of Central NSW, Kai Ellison has recently commenced a NextGen Jobs Information Technology Traineeship at the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning. Kai has always been interested in IT. He chose to do a traineeship as he is more of a hands-on learner, and wants to ensure he keeps up with the latest industry knowledge.

IT Trainee Kai Ellison

“Everything is getting impacted by technology, so if
you don’t understand IT, in the next few years, you’re going to be left behind,”
Kai says.

And Kai is onto something. The Organisation for
Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) estimates that in coming decades
approximately 14 per cent of current jobs are at high risk of automation, while
another 32 per cent are likely to be affected by significant modifications,
changing how jobs are carried out. In our increasingly
digitised world, IT skills will be critical for the vast majority of workers.

At NextGen Jobs, we specialise in jobs of the future.
Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can partner with you to create a
sustainable talent pipeline that will thrive in the market now and in the
future.

Indigenous on her Father’s side, Ruby Stanley is from the Yirrganydji tribe of Townsville, North Queensland.

While 20-year-old Ruby currently lives in Pakenham, Victoria, her family ensures she maintains a close connection with her culture by sharing stories, teaching her parts of the language, and showing her how to play Aboriginal musical instruments, among other things.

After finishing high school, Ruby took a break to focus on strengthening her mental health. In July 2018, she felt ready to focus on her career.

Having never been employed before, Ruby’s friend recommended that she prepare for the world of work by undertaking a business traineeship.

“I wanted to…gain more experience, develop my skills and to get a bit of a head start,” Ruby says.

“My key takeaway” Ruby says, “has definitely been defining my skills. Also the confidence I have built from having people believe in me and instruct me and teach me things that are really valuable, has really helped me.”

Since this August, Ruby has been working as Business Trainee at Kangan.

“Doing a traineeship opens up opportunities,” Ruby says.

A keen learner, Ruby plans to use the traineeship as a stepping stone to continue upskilling, with hopes of eventually gaining a Bachelor’s degree.

Some of the best jobs don’t require a university degree. Companies often struggle to find employees with the right skills.

Even though unemployment is high and you may be struggling to get an interview, the good news is that there are still opportunities for a rewarding and well-paid career. These opportunities can’t be found inside a traditional classroom, but rather in the educational options that provide the technical, vocational and soft skills that companies actually need. These include professional certifications, associate degrees, apprenticeships, and occupational learning.

In Job U Australian workforce skills expert Nicholas Wyman shows how to find these non-traditional pathways and get your dream job. Along the way you’ll meet people of all ages who have done just that: from an emergency air paramedic, to a lead racing car mechanic, to a celebrity chef.

If you are considering tertiary education, or if you are looking for a new career, Job U is your ticket to a secure and prosperous future.

Praise for the Australian and New Zealand edition of Job U:
‘We need to focus on youth employment, and Nick Wyman’s strategies as always, are innovative and exciting.’
–Martin Riordan, CEO, TAFE Directors Australia

‘Job U is a must read for any young Australian considering their future, and perhaps more importantly, for their parents and teachers. It dispels the long held belief that a rewarding career is reached exclusively via a university pathway by showcasing VET options as viable first-choice options that can lead to both individual and organisational success.’–Mark Callaghan, CEO, WorldSkills Australia

‘Career practitioners will find Job U a useful addition to their careers reference library.’–Bernadette Gigliotti, CEO, Australian Centre for Career Education

‘Whether you’re a job-seeker, parent, carer, educator or career advisor, Job U is essential reading. Nicholas Wyman not only provides a compelling case for change in the way we educate, but provides a blueprint to affect that change on an individual, organisational and systemic level.’–Dan Haesler, educator, writer, speaker and consultant

Job U will be available from all bookshops in Australia and New Zealand, and from all major ebook retailers like Kindle, Kobo, Google and Apple’s iBookstore.

NextGen Jobs values and recognises diversity in the workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and actively support applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds to apply. We offer safe and inclusive working environments where you can learn, grow and achieve your career objectives.